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The Debate
The Debate is our home for the best opinions from around Asia. Whether it is negotiating with Iran, responding to North Korean provocations, discussing Japan's looming demographic issues, or considering the new balance of power in the Asia-Pacific, some of the region's leading thinkers offer their take.
What It Will Take for India to Address Climate Change?
By Divya Sharma and Avantika Shrivastava
Climate pledges and the energy transition can only truly be achieved when these are linked with development promises. At present, however, there seems to be a gap.
Military Conscription in Southeastern Myanmar Demands International Intervention
By Nai Aue Mon and Maggi Quadrini
To stave off defeat, the military regime is robbing the country's youth of livelihoods and educational opportunities.
Xi Jinping Visit Gives France’s Macron Chance to Raise China’s Uyghur ‘Genocide’
By David Whitehouse
A leading Uyghur diaspora activist says that Paris should adopt robust sanctions such as those adopted in the United States in recent years.
Taiwan’s Human Rights Priorities After the 2024 Elections
By Jean Wu
Despite demonstrating a strong human rights record, there is still room for Taiwan to improve – especially on migrant workers' rights and refugee law.
Why the SDGs Should Be Revised to Meet the Needs of Indigenous Peoples
By Rithy Bun
Indigenous people have unique needs and backgrounds that are overlooked by the 17 targets outlined by the United Nations.
Asia-Pacific States Must Divorce Their Industry Friends for a Strong Global Plastics Treaty
By Arpita Bhagat
With just two meetings left to finalize the treaty text, the significance of the current Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee meeting cannot be overstated.
Taiwan Is Indispensable in Preparing for Future Pandemics
By Hsueh Jui-yuan
As the WHO debates a new global health governance framework, Taiwan is left out of the discussion – to the detriment of future antipandemic efforts.
Welcome to World War III
By Michael Vatikiotis
The Western-led “rules-based order” is fraying, but nothing seems to be emerging that might replace it.
It Is High Time to Engage North Korea
By Jongsoo Lee
The alternative is to do nothing and drift into an even more serious crisis as North Korea further builds up its nuclear and missile capabilities.
How the New UN Special Envoy to Myanmar Should Approach Her Impossible Mission
By Scot Marciel
Former Australian Foreign Minister Julie Bishop faces an unenviable task in attempting to bring peace to the country.
Reciprocal Access: How to Deal with TikTok and Other Chinese Apps Fairly and Democratically
By Nithin Coca
Liberal democracies should restrict TikTok and other Chinese apps until China allows foreign platforms equal and fair access to the Chinese digital market.
United Front, Clean Future: South Asia’s Path to Sustainable Energy
By Abdul Waheed Bhutto
A move toward unified energy and environmental systems will not only tackle air pollution directly but also stimulate economic growth and promote regional integration.